Question

Why is childhood obesity high in the African American community?

Answer 1

• Childhood obesity has been a matter of concern for a very long time.It is linked with higher risk of diabetes type2,heart disease,high blood pressure etc.Around 14% of African American children are suffering from chronic obesity.One of the reasons is the sedantary lifestyle of the children,as they are spending more time indoors playing video games and watching television rather than going out and playing some sport.Decreased physical activity is one of the major causes of obesity.
• There are several parental factors also associated with obesity in African American children.The nutritional patterns found in families have an influence on obesity.It has been found that parents coming from low income groups eat more home cooked meals compared to parents coming from high income groups.Higher income groups can afford healthy food.
• Also television viewing while eating is another factor contributing to obesity.Children eating more junk food while watching television are at a higher risk of obesity,found especially in high income families.The diet which a parent makes their children follow plays a major role in influencing their eating habits.
• The marketing environments of African American consumers is also less likely to promote healthy eating among children and adults.The advertisements of packaged food is immense,which are all high on calories and low on essential nutrients.Poor food choices is seen as one of the reasons.
• Also neighbourhoods which are located near super markets are eating more food which is wholesome and of high quality than those neighbourhoods where access to healthy food is less,including restaurants and supermarkets.